Novel Emulgel Formulations for Topical Delivery

Topical formulations encompass a wide variety of formulations intended for cosmetic or dermatological application, to healthy as well as diseased skin. These formulations range in physicochemical nature from solid through semi solid to liquid. Drug substances are infrequently administered alone, but rather as part of a formulation, in combination with one or more non-medicated agents that serve varied and specialized pharmaceutical functions. Emulgels are emulsions, either of the oil-in-water or water in oil type which are gelled by mixing with a gelling agent. Emulsified gel is stable one and superior vehicle for hydrophobic or poorly water soluble drugs. In short, emulgels are combination of emulsion and gel. Emulsions possess a certain degree of elegance and are easily washed off whenever desired. They also have a high ability to penetrate the skin. Emulgels for dermatological use have several favorable properties such as being thixotropic, greaseless, easily spreadable, easily removable, emollient, non-staining and transparent. The aim of this work was to develop and optimize emulgel formulation of Ivermectin for effective topical treatment.